People Behind BLAST: Julie 'Jules' Simpson
Welcome back to People Behind BLAST. In this edition, we’re spotlighting the pivotal events team and their head honcho, Julie Simpson or as we know here - Jules. Jules has been a key force at BLAST for over seven years, joining the company when the world of esports was entirely new to her.
Having previously worked on major international sporting events, including the Commonwealth Games in Australia, Jules brought a wealth of event delivery experience to the burgeoning esports landscape. As Director of Events, her role has evolved from hands-on execution to strategic foresight, but the fundamental mission remains the same: “organise great events with a great team.
You’re one of BLAST’s longer serving staff members - how long have you been here and what were your first impressions joining BLAST and the world esports?
I joined BLAST almost 7.5 years ago now! I had no clue what I was getting myself into, nor did I know anything about esports, but I’m still here, I love it, and can’t wait to see what comes next.
Winding the clock back, where were you before you joined BLAST?
Before BLAST I was working on international sporting events such as the Rugby World Cup, Champions League and right before BLAST I was living in the Gold Coast Australia working on the 2018 Commonwealth Games
So you are BLAST’s Director of Events, BLAST does quite a lot of those, how would you describe your role and how has it changed since you joined?
No day at BLAST has ever been the same for me. Whilst my title and responsibilities have changed over the years to become more strategic and forward thinking, the goal remains the same, organise great events with a great team!
Leading the Events team efforts, have you or the wider team set any goals for the year?
Have fun, work hard and put on the best events in the industry!
Looking outside of the ‘arena’ event delivery team, you also manage our global mobility team - it seems like the world of travel is always changing, is that the biggest challenge?
The world is always changing and as part of that, travelling the world is always changing. It’s a tough and fast paced part of the job, moving that many people around the globe, but my geography and airport name skills have grown tremendously - we have a great team working on this area of the business
Delivering events globally with BLAST’s growing ecosystem count means we now have multi-event weekends - what has adapting to this increased load looked like for you and the team?
A strong, capable team made up of dedicated internal staff and reliable knowledgeable freelancers so we can adapt and scale in line with the growing business. We also foster good working relationships with venues and partners around the world
Looking back on your time at BLAST, what has been some of your favourite event(s) and why?
Royal Arena in Copenhagen will always be a special place for me, the Austin Major was also a really fun one, so many fans and such a spectacle!
And looking ahead, what’s exciting for you or what’s in your sights in the near future?
I am excited for what we as BLAST are going to do next in the global entertainment space, not just within esports - watch this space! Short term, Rocket League in La Défense Paris this Spring is going to be spectacular .
You’ve already travelled to many different countries for BLAST events and also likely others in your prior roles, is there a standout destination?
Brazil is always a fun one, the crowds there are crazy passionate! I’m already looking forward to going back in 2027. I also like delivering events in my home country - the UK! We are up there as a leading nation in the global events space.
Okay so let’s say you’ve got a blank cheque and can host an event anywhere. Where would it be?
BLAST Maldives, beach edition. Or if we are thinking really big - Let’s go to the moon!
Let's say you’ve become a part of the BLAST Broadcast in front of the camera, what role would you suit? (Host, commentary, coach, player, analyst)
Please please please keep me away from the camera and the microphones. And the PC’s. I think I should just stay behind the scenes, it’s better for everyone.
What do you like to do outside of work? Any hobbies?
I like the theatre a lot, staying active and spending as much time as possible with my dog! Is pizza a hobby? If yes, that too!
